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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>As we celebrate the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, we honor a landmark civil rights law that has transformed opportunities for millions of Americans with disabilities.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Having spent more than 20 years advocating alongside the blind and low vision community, I have witnessed firsthand the progress the ADA has made possible. It has expanded access to education, employment, transportation, technology, and greater independence. At the same time, our work is far from complete. Achieving true accessibility, equal opportunity, and full inclusion requires continued collaboration, innovation, and advocacy.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements made possible through the dedication of advocates, organizations, policymakers, employers, and individuals with disabilities who have worked tirelessly to advance equality. It is also a reminder of our shared responsibility to ensure that accessibility is recognized not as an accommodation, but as a fundamental civil right.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>I extend my sincere appreciation to the organizations and partners that continue to champion the rights, independence, and full participation of Floridians who are blind or have low vision. Your leadership and commitment strengthen our communities and create opportunities for current and future generations.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Together, we will continue building a future where every person has the opportunity to participate fully, contribute meaningfully, and succeed without barriers.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>“Nothing About Us Without Us”<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Jorge Hernandez, President <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Miami-Dade Chapter<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>National Federation of the blind of Florida <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>